The Latest: Pence blames media, Clinton, for Trump 'slander'

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Latest on the U.S. presidential race (all times EDT):

7:15 p.m.

Mike Pence is blaming the media and Hillary Clinton for what he characterizes as “a discussion of slander and lies” targeting his running mate Donald Trump.

Pence’s remarks Thursday evening were the first time the Republican vice presidential candidate addressed multiple allegations of sexual assault leveled at Trump.

Pence told attendees at a GOP dinner in Orefield, Pennsylvania, that Trump denies accusations that he groped or forcefully kissed women against their will. He says the claims are “unsubstantiated.”

Pence blames Clinton for pushing the story. He says Democrats are trying to draw attention away from hacked emails that are unflattering to her campaign.

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